How to Afford Masking Everyday
Yes, I mask every day.
Very often, the first reaction I get from people when I tell them I use a mask every day is: "How do (or can) you afford that?" So I decided to share how I do exactly that!
When I say I "mask" daily, I'm not referring to using sheet masks every single day like how you may imagine. But rather, because I have combination skin – dry cheeks and an oily t-zone – I incorporate various forms of "masking" to detox, nourish, hydrate and restore balance to my skin.
My usual beauty routine generally involves double-cleansing, a toner, and a moisturizer. Occasionally, I would use a face oil, but every day, I would use a mask of some form – sheet, foam, cream, clay, peel-off, or powder – before I apply my moisturizer.
We all know skin care products can be expensive. So I understand, masking everyday sounds expensive. But if you read on, you'll find out how you can actually do it with less than $100 per month.
(Above) Freshly-masked and happy!
(Left, clockwise from top left) "Pretty Sure I'm Gorgeous" Charcoal mask by anese; the Rescue Mask by Eve Lom; Soothe & Calm HydroGel Mask and Eye Mask by Erno Lazlo.
Alternate Between Different Mask Types
I use sheet masks once every 2, 3 days, and in between those days, I would use other types of masks depending on what I feel like my skin needs. Sheet masks can only be used once per sheet, but tubs and tubes of masks usually last 2 to 3 months, so that contributes to the reason why I can mask daily without breaking the bank.
Opt For Multi-Purpose Products
I love products that are designed for multi purposes, like a makeup remover that doubles as a good face wash, and when it comes to buying cleansers, I like going for ones that can also be used as masks, too. This way, you buy 1 product instead of 2!
Some of my favorites include Estee Lauder's Foam Cleanser Mask and French Girl's Rose Facial Polish.
Consider Sheet Masks Packaged in Bulk
Most sheet masks we see in the market are packaged individually and sometimes the prices are slightly higher really because of the packaging itself. So consider sheet masks that are packaged in bulk, like Lululun, which are sold in a pack of 42 pieces for $24 (which works out to be $0.6 per sheet).
Stock Up on Korean Sheet Masks
You cannot go wrong with#Kbeauty brands. They generally work really well, and most importantly, they tend to be way more affordable. Some of my go-to Korean brands with great sheet masks include innisfree (you can read about their biodegradable sheets here), Peach & Lily, and Leaders.
Save the More Expensive Sheet Masks for Special Occasions
Some of my personal favorite sheet masks are more expensive and I like saving those for "special occasions". By special, I really just mean an "unwind Friday" or "well-reserved Sunday" treat. I try to keep it to 2 or 3 times a month.
I recently really, really, love the Hydrogel Mask collection from Erno Laszlo, because of the cooling texture. The Soothe and Calm version is on the top of my best sheet masks chart because it comforts my sensitive (sometimes red and irritated) cheeks and keeps my skin hydrated even without having to follow up with a moisturizer. Another sheet mask I like that falls on the pricier end is the Dawn Mask by Joanna Vargas.
Use Cotton Pads Soaked with a Hydrating Toner
I stole this trick from my mom. She soaks cotton pads with her hydrating toners as a made-at-home sheet mask, and one thing I love about this method is being able to use different toners on different areas of my face. It works really well for someone like me with combination skin.
Cover Face with Cold Towel After Applying Serum
This isn't really a "mask" but it really offers similar effects to an actual sheet mask. Wash your face with warm water, apply toner and serum, then take out a clean towel that you have "chilled" in the fridge and place it over your face for a few minutes.
When I'm short on time, I sometimes place the towel in the freezer to speed up the "chilling" time, but it's much better to use the refrigerator because when the temperature gets too low, it may also harm your skin. There is no perfect "recipe" for this but just know that you should be feeling relaxed and comfortable!
I hope you found this post helpful! Leave a comment below if you have any questions or feedback for me! I'd love to hear from you!
Thank you for reading!
Love,
